Janaína Torres Named Godmother of Celebrity Xcel, A Culinary Milestone

Chef Janaína Torres: A Rising Star in Culinary Travel

In an exciting announcement, Celebrity Cruises has appointed Janaína Torres, the acclaimed Brazilian chef who was named Best Female Chef in the World 2024 by Worlds 50 Best, as the Godmother of its newest ship, the Celebrity Xcel. This historic appointment marks Torres as the first Brazilian chef to hold this prestigious role, showcasing the merging of culinary excellence with luxury travel.

Celebrity Cruises has long been known for its commitment to offering world-class dining experiences to its guests, and bringing Torres on board underlines the brand's dedication to celebrating diverse cultures through food. The collaboration aims to highlight local ingredients and recipes, providing guests with immersive culinary experiences that are deeply rooted in tradition and sustainability.

The Passion for Culinary Excellence

Laura Hodges Bethge, president of Celebrity Cruises, expressed excitement over this partnership, stating, "We are honored for Chef Janaína Torres, a trailblazer in the culinary industry, to be Godmother of Celebrity Xcel." This enthusiasm resonates throughout the organization, as they plan to integrate her culinary philosophies into the cruise experience.

Torres is not only recognized for her award-winning restaurant, A Casa do Porco in São Paulo, but she also advocates for nutrition accessibility and the promotion of Brazilian cuisine globally. Her innovative approach to cooking emphasizes sustainability and minimizing food waste, aligning perfectly with Celebrity Cruises’ mission to offer elevated culinary experiences while making a positive impact on communities and the environment.

At celebrity Xcel, guests can look forward to dining experiences that celebrate local and authentic flavors. Torres states, "I've always believed that fine dining should be accessible, not intimidating. Food brings us together, connecting us through new flavors, traditions, and shared memories. I’m proud to partner with Celebrity Cruises to showcase our culture and cuisine on a global stage."

A New Culinary Journey Begins

Celebrity Xcel is set to redefine dining at sea beginning November 16, when Torres will officially christen the ship in a ceremonial event that symbolizes good fortune and protection for all who sail on board. The ship's itineraries will include seven-night journeys, featuring destinations like The Bahamas, Mexico, and various Caribbean islands, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the local cultures and cuisines.

In Summer 2026, Celebrity Xcel will embark on her inaugural European season, offering journeys from Barcelona and Athens. These trips will include unique overnight stays in destinations such as Madeira, Portugal, giving travelers an immersive experience that connects them to the essence of each port.

The partnership between Torres and Celebrity Cruises is expected to transform dining experiences into unforgettable events filled with vibrant flavors and cultural stories. As a proponent of Latin American culture and cuisine, Torres brings an enriching perspective that will undoubtedly elevate the culinary offerings on Celebrity Xcel.

Conclusion: A New Era in Culinary Travel

As Celebrity Cruises continues to innovate and captivate guests with elevated culinary offerings, the inclusion of Chef Janaína Torres as Godmother of Celebrity Xcel signifies a new era in culinary travel. This collaboration is set to enhance the understanding of diverse cuisines while celebrating the cultural narratives behind them. With the aim of connecting people through food, Celebrity Xcel promises to deliver exceptional dining experiences that create lasting memories for its guests.

Whether you are a seasoned traveler or new to cruising, Celebrity Xcel, under the culinary guidance of Janaína Torres, is poised to offer an unparalleled experience characterized by high standards of service, sustainability, and the celebration of global cultures through cuisine.